The next generation of cruise ships will be powered by the sun and wind

"Selar, a brand-new expedition line, plans to launch its 36-passenger ship, Captain Arctic, in November 2026 with itineraries throughout Norway, Svalbard, and Greenland, some of which are already sold out. Currently under construction at the Chantier Naval de l'Ocean Indien shipyard in Mauritius, it will be the Arctic's first solar sailing ship, with an estimated 90 per cent of the ship's operations fueled by solar and wind-powered electric propulsion, tapping a battery reserve and biofuel when those elements aren't available."

"While the exact mechanisms vary, each vessel uses specially designed sails to tap nature's energy sources: the sun and the wind. Meanwhile, hydroelectricity, biofuel, and hydrogen-powered fuel cells serve as backup. The ship will also generate its own fresh water, rely on an organic heating system instead of energy-intensive fuel boilers, and implement a robust zero-waste policy to eliminate food waste and grey water."

"Over the next five years, a handful of lines, including Hurtigruten, Ponant, and industry newcomers Orient Express Sailing Yachts and Selar, are scheduled to release the next generation of sustainable cruise ships. With two to six masts rising from their decks, each vessel features rigid sails that don't flutter in the wind - but harness the power of the elements nonetheless."

Several cruise lines, including Hurtigruten, Ponant, Orient Express Sailing Yachts and Selar, will introduce a new generation of sustainable ships over the next five years. These vessels will feature two to six rigid masts and sails that harness solar and wind energy while preventing flutter. Hydroelectric systems, biofuels, and hydrogen fuel cells will provide backup power. Selar's 36-passenger Captain Arctic, under construction in Mauritius and due in November 2026, expects about 90% of operations to be powered by solar and wind-driven electric propulsion. The ship will generate fresh water, use organic heating, enforce a zero-waste policy, and operate flexible, weather- and wildlife-led itineraries emphasizing outdoor excursions.

Read at CN Traveller